JUL 27 1970

UNITED STATES ARMS CONTROL AND DISARMAMENT AGENCY
WASHINGTON, D.C. 20451

 

July 24, 1970

Dear Joshua:

On looking further into the background of the con-
cept of crimes against humanity, I find my recollection
confirmed that it has a considerable and checkered past.
There is a meaning, stemming mainly from the Nurenberg
trials, which has wide acceptance. A number of attempts
have been made to use the concept politically, however,
as in the case of nuclear weapons and, in fact, in con-
nection with CBW. The enclosed excerpts from reports
on the subject may be of interest. I think we would do
well to stay away from the term.

Sincerely

 

Acting Assistant Director
International Relations Bureau

Enclosures:

Excerpts re crimes against humanity

Dr. Joshua Lederberg
Department of Genetics
Stanford University
Stanford, California 94305